Walnut Creek Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Contra Costa County, California
Protected Tree Definition
Trees larger than 9 inches diameter (28 inches circumference) at 4.5 feet.
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Heritage Trees designated by the Design Review Commission and City Council under Walnut Creek Municipal Code Chapter 3-8 for exceptional size, age, species rarity, historical association, or community value; any tree with 9-inch or greater diameter (28-inch circumference) measured at 4.5 feet automatically subject to permit review.
Required Report Sections
Species identification, DBH (9+ inch threshold measured at 4.5 feet), health and structural assessment, justification for removal, photo documentation, replacement plan from approved Walnut Creek native species list; Heritage Tree applications additionally require Design Review Commission materials
Replacement Requirements
1:1 minimum for protected tree removal under WCMC Chapter 3-8; 2:1 inch-for-inch for heritage trees at Design Review Commission discretion
15-gallon to 24-inch box replacement trees from the approved Walnut Creek native species list; in-lieu fees to the Tree Preservation Fund accepted when on-site replanting is infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist; Heritage Tree applications additionally require materials suitable for Design Review Commission review under WCMC Chapter 3-8
Municipal Code
Walnut Creek Municipal Code Chapter 3-8
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Community Development Department
Nearby Cities in Contra Costa County
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Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Walnut Creek before submitting permits or reports.
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